Mitsubishi Eclipse Returns as a Leaf-Based Electric SUV

Wouter Smit · 2026-06-09

Mitsubishi has a habit of reviving iconic names, and the Eclipse is no exception. You might remember the Eclipse as a sporty coupe from the '90s and early 2000s. Well, it's back again, but this time it's not a gas-guzzler. It's a subcompact electric SUV built on the Nissan Leaf platform. ### What's Under the Hood? This new Eclipse is essentially a rebadged Nissan Leaf with Mitsubishi styling. Think of it as a Leaf wearing a sharper suit. It's expected to offer the same 40 kWh battery pack, giving you around 150 miles of range. That's enough for daily commutes and errands, though not for long road trips. - **Battery**: 40 kWh lithium-ion - **Range**: Roughly 150 miles - **Drive**: Front-wheel drive - **Charging**: Supports Level 2 and DC fast charging ### Why Bring Back the Eclipse Name? Mitsubishi already used the Eclipse name on the Eclipse Cross, a compact crossover. Now they're doubling down. It's a smart move because the Eclipse name carries nostalgia. People remember the sporty coupe, and that emotional connection can drive interest. Plus, it helps Mitsubishi stand out in the crowded EV market. > "The Eclipse name is a strong brand asset. Using it on an EV signals that Mitsubishi is serious about electrification while honoring its heritage." — Wouter Smit, Innovation Consultant ### How Does It Compare to Other EVs? At this size, the Eclipse competes with the Chevy Bolt and the Mini Electric. The Bolt offers more range (around 259 miles), but the Eclipse might undercut it on price. Expect a starting price of around $28,000 before federal tax credits. That's competitive for a subcompact SUV. ### What About the Interior? Inside, you'll find a simple, functional cabin with a 7-inch touchscreen. It's not luxurious, but it's practical. Cargo space is about 23 cubic feet with the rear seats up, which is decent for this class. The rear seats fold flat for larger items. ### Is It Worth Waiting For? If you're in the market for an affordable electric SUV and you like the Leaf's reliability but want something with more personality, this could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that it's essentially a Leaf underneath. So if you need more range or all-wheel drive, you might want to look elsewhere. ### Final Thoughts Mitsubishi is betting that nostalgia and affordability will win over buyers. The Eclipse EV won't break any records, but it could be a solid entry-level EV for city dwellers. It's a smart move for a brand that needs to electrify its lineup without spending billions on new platforms. In short, the Eclipse is back, and it's electric. Whether that excites you or not depends on how much you value the name. But for Mitsubishi, it's a step in the right direction.